Topuria criticizes Pimblett's performance, confirms plans to defend lightweight title

Ilia Topuria expressed disappointment with Paddy Pimblett's performance against Gage, stating he knew Pimblett was not a strong fighter but didn't realize the extent. Topuria also revealed that if he moves up to welterweight to fight Islam Makhachev, he will not be stripped of his featherweight title, as he plans to continue defending the 145-pound belt. Magomed Ankalaev, through manager Abdelaziz, challenged Khamzat Chimaev to a striking masterclass, suggesting Chimaev doesn't need wrestling training. UFC announced several fights for hardcore fans, including a difficult matchup for Cory Sandhagen against Batista instead of Sean O'Malley. Additionally, Jiri Prochazka discussed still being affected by his loss even after the birth of his child, claiming he was at 40-50% capacity due to injury.